Risk to drivers and workshop staff from chromates (chromium(VI) compounds) on engine parts and exhaust after-treatment components; caused by a systemic design fault on the part of car manufacturers.

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Modern engines and exhaust systems are fitted with so-called ‘heat shields’ for thermal insulation and heat retention, to protect components and reduce the ambient temperature in the engine compartment.

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Calcium-based insulation materials, usually encased in metal foils, are typically used for this purpose; they are fitted to exhaust pipes and turbochargers, but also serve as heat shields for diesel particulate filters, oxidation catalysts and so-called ‘SCR systems’

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If the calcium-based insulation material comes into direct or indirect contact – via the release of fibres from chromium-containing hot components – carcinogenic, chronically environmentally harmful chromium(VI) compounds (chromates) are formed over time; these spread throughout the engine compartment due to thermodynamic processes and settle not only on uninsulated parts but also on plastic covers.

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As chromium(VI) is not only carcinogenic but also absorbed through the skin, these deposits must not be touched or stirred up; service personnel are particularly at risk during workshop and maintenance work, but so too are drivers when topping up consumable fluids or carrying out repairs themselves.

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Vehicle manufacturers are aware of this issue; some companies have at least informed their service staff at authorised workshops.

 

In collaboration with chromate experts and inspired by Cleansulation® Technology, Kavarmat® has developed the chromate cleaning and decontamination system KavarClean® Redox Powder & Spray and KavarWipe® decontamination wipes, which can be used not only in car workshops but also during maintenance work on similarly affected combined heat and power units, steam and gas turbines, as well as in the engine rooms of ships and yachts, until the legally required substitution can take place.

 

In this way, dangerous exposure to the environmentally harmful carcinogen can at least be mitigated, thereby ensuring safety for people and the environment.

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Further information, warnings and legal texts, as well as technical details on the KavarClean® portfolio, will soon be available in the download section on this page.